Veröffentlichung
In German, the word for 'release' (in the sense of making something available to the public) is Veröffentlichung.
Veröffentlichung is used when referring to the release or publication of media, news or information to the public. Depending on the specific context, other terms may be more appropriate: use Freigabe for formal releases, Herausgabe when referring to the delivery of documents or files and Publikation specifically for the release of scholarly or academic work.
Meaning: to make available to the public (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The noun Veröffentlichung is composed of the prefix ver- (indicating a process), the stem öffentlich (public) and the suffix -ung (which turns a verb into a noun).
Which one should you use?
While Veröffentlichung is used for media and information, it should not be used for other types of release. For the release of a person from prison, use Entlassung and for the release of a debt or a legal claim, use Erlass.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Veröffentlichung refers to the act of release, but if you want to use a verb to describe the action of publishing or releasing something to the public, use veröffentlichen.
Did you know?
- A 'press release' is not called a 'Presseveröffentlichung' in German, but is instead a Pressemitteilung, which literally translates to 'press communication'.
- While Veröffentlichung covers general media, the specific release of a film in theaters is called a Kinostart, which literally means 'cinema start'.
- In the tech world, the 'release' of a software version is often called a Freigabe, a word that also means 'approval' or 'giving permission'.
Examples in context
- Die Freigabe des neuen Produkts erfolgt morgen.The release of the new product will take place tomorrow.
- Bitte veranlassen Sie die sofortige Herausgabe der Akten.Please arrange for the immediate release of the files.
- Die Veröffentlichung seines Debütalbums war ein großer Erfolg.The release of his debut album was a great success.
- Die neue Ausgabe des Magazins wurde heute veröffentlicht.The new edition of the magazine was released today.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a new project.
- LauraWann ist die Veröffentlichung des Berichts?When is the release of the report?
- MaximilianWahrscheinlich erst nächste Woche, Laura.Probably not until next week, Laura.
- LauraDas ist leider viel zu spät.That is unfortunately much too late.
- MaximilianIch versuche, die Veröffentlichung zu beschleunigen.I will try to speed up the release.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Veröffentlichung, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
